Large Type Offers Literacy Benefits and Accessibility

Large type (LT) materials have been around for years and Anchorage Public Library has cultivated a wonderful LT collection for adults as well as LT collections for Juvenile and Young Adults. Currently, APL uses multiple vendors for books and materials but for LT books, Thorndike Press has been APL’s best resource, delivering new and bestselling titles consistently. Thorndike also offers 20-25% discounts on LT titles, which are more expensive than regular print editions, sometimes by as much as $10-12 more per book.

We realize an inclusive and expansive LT collection can help many different groups of library patrons, especially those with vision impairments, dyslexia, or ADHD, as well as those who struggle with reading, are English language learners, and even those who just don't want to read with their glasses on. Did you know that according to the CDC, approximately 12 million people 40 years and over in the United States have vision impairment? Teachers and caregivers find large type helpful for reluctant readers or kids struggling with literacy skills. Check out this video of young readers sharing why they love large type. 

LT materials have larger font sizes, greater line spacing, and more white space making them easier to read than traditional texts. Also, reading LT has been shown to help improve reading fluency, reading comprehension, improve readers’ confidence, minimize reading distractions, and decrease digital dependence and digital eye strain. Most importantly, reading LT can help foster a sustained love of reading for all ages.

Check out a selection of current LT titles here or use the Large Print filter when searching the catalog.

Fun Fact: The OpenDyslexic font, on Libby and Hoopla provides greater contrast between letters, making it easier for patrons with Dyslexia to read electronic books with these apps.